There are some brands that convey trust and durability. One of these is Woolrich. We respect them greatly because they have been in business since 1830!
That’s a long time. To put it into perspective, here’s a few facts about that time in history:
– When Woolrich’s woolen mill was created, there were only 24 states in the United States
– Andrew Jackson was President
– The Oregon Trail came into use
– Slavery divided the country
This incredible company has seen many wars and hard times. During the Great Depression, Woolrich turned it’s wool-workers into wood-workers, and had them build homes to survive the difficult times. Learn more about this company by watching and reading their history below.
If you are interested in Woolrich products, contact us, and we’ll help you find exactly what you want!
Watch the CBS Video to Learn More:
History of Woolrich:
John Rich, an immigrant from England, built his first woolen mill in Plum Run, Pennsylvania in 1830. He visited lumber camps driving his mule cart, and sold his woolen fabric, cocks, coverlets, and yarn.
By 1845, he built a new mill a couple of miles up the road next to Chatham Run, which provided a steadier source of water. That building exists today as part of the group of buildings, homes, and community establishments that have become Woolrich, Pennsylvania.
“The company would experience the Civil War, the Great Depression, two world wars, and the end of the Cold War.”
It would witness the beginning of the Industrial Revolution in America, the amazing growth of American cities, and the telecommunications revolution.
Legend has it that Woolrich was the first company to use a zipper in men’s trousers. The timeless Railroad Vest, introduced when the railroad was being built through Pennsylvania, is still a popular item. Another garment with roots back to the mid-1800’s is the Buffalo Check Shirt that has kept many generations of outdoorsmen warm.
Technological developments, new production methods, and changing American lifestyles led to new products for all types of outdoor activities–all-wool bathing suits and wool golf knickers joined rugged coats for hunters and trappers. As America took to the roads in the early 1930’s, Woolrich added automobile robes and steamer rugs for the more mobile society. Woolrich was contracted by the government to outfit Admiral Byrd’s expedition to Antarctica in 1939, 1940, and 1941.
Eventually, the introduction of new high-tech materials allowed Woolrich to enhance the performance of its outdoor wear, meeting the needs of a new generation of enthusiasts. Traditional fabrics like wool and cotton teamed up with man-made fibers to create clothing that our customers could rely on for everything from a backpacking trip to a leisurely stroll.
Today the little village of Woolrich is still headquarters for the company, but the business has grown to a worldwide lifestyle company with a full range of outdoor-inspired products, from jackets and shirts to outdoor furniture.
You can buy a wool jacket your great-great grandfather may have worn in the woods or a parka that’s all about the latest in advanced technology.
What has not changed in all those years is Woolrich’s commitment to quality, value, and products that fit the outdoor lifestyle. And most of all, their commitment to you, our customers.
